Musashino Zelkova

Finding the perfect tree for all settings can be a struggle. Some trees are just a little too sensitive to particular urban areas and there are others that would simply outgrow any given space in a matter of years. Neither is the case with Musashino Zelkova (Zelkova serrata 'Musashino').

This spectacular tree was named the 2016 Society of Municipal Arborists Urban Tree of the Year. One look and you'll see why!

Native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, Musashino Zelkova's signature style is enough to put in on some of the finest runways in Paris, but your landscape is exactly where it wants to be! Its claim to fame being densely growing upward reaching branches.

Take a step back and you'll be able to fully enjoy and appreciate the overall columnar-like shape this variety grows in. The medium green foliage packs itself in nicely and can make a lovely high screen if planted in a row.

It's hard to believe Musashino was introduced to the United States less than 20 years ago. It's made quite a scene here ever since!

Many who are familiar with the variety say that Musashino leafs out just a bit earlier in the spring than other Zelkova varieties. No need to wait in eager anticipation when the first signs of spring are in the air!

Musashino will deliver fall color just as reliably as summer fades, as well. As fall finds its way to your region, this variety will often turn a pretty yellow fading into rusty red-orange.

As if all that wasn't enough to have you singing praises, this Zelkova is extremely tolerant to salt spray used on roads during the winter months. Much more tolerant than other zelkova varieties!

The perfect tree for your urban planting needs doesn't have to be hard to find. Add a Musashino Zelkova to your landscape today!

How to Use Musashino Zelkova in the Landscape

A tree fit for a thousand landscapes, Musashino can be planted just about anywhere and not only thrive but look absolutely exceptional!

This tree's narrow upright growing habit makes it perfect for shade in a limited footprint. It's a great choice for a compact city garden!

You can also use this tree in your front yard to line your driveway or the street. It'll turn any roadway into a runway lined with exquisite green columns!

Street tree planting is a popular way to use Musashino. Or, perhaps you have an unsightly view that you'd like to hide. Plant a screen of this Zelkova to manage that landscape challenge.

This tree is also perfect for gardeners wanting to add a tree but want to maintain sunshine for pretty perennials underneath. Musashino won't hog the rays with its vase-shaped growing habit!

Use the fantastic foliage as a contrast planted near a sunny brick wall. The combo plus its attractive trunk will make a great spot for photos all season long.

#ProPlantTips for Care

The most important thing to remember when thinking about how to best care for your Musashino is that it likes a lot of sunlight.

Full sun is its favorite so pick out a spot where it can bask in the rays all day long. You'll also want to pay attention to the soil quality.

Musashino Zelkova likes nice evenly moist soil without it being soggy. You can ensure it doesn't sit in water by planting in well drained soil.

The low maintenance aspects don't end there though. This tree couldn't care less about salt sprays used on roads in the winter and takes well to occasional trims in the early spring.

If you'd like to give the tree a little extra boost, add a layer of mulch starting six inches from the base of the plant. Mulch helps protect the roots while the plant is establishing and helps conserve water.

Planting this award-winning Zelkova is a choice you won't soon regret. Order a Musashino Zelkova to fulfill your landscaping desires from our expert growers at Nature Hills Nursery!